Tasting for a Good Cause

When the earthquake hit Haiti in January, the wine world responded with auctions and events to raise money for relief efforts. This month it’s my turn to contribute by attending Cru vs. Brew, a wine vs. beer competition and dinner, March 23 at Amanti Vino in Montclair.

The event will feature award-winning master sommelier Fred Dexheimer (among his many accolades: 2007 Wine and Spirits Rock Star Sommelier) pitting his expertise against Brooklyn Brewery brewmaster Garrett Oliver, a world-renowned authority on traditional beer, to find the best match for “Top Chef” contender Ariane Duarte's amazing menu.

All net proceeds from the evening will be donated to World Cares Center, a nonprofit group working within Haitian communities to foster sustainable, locally led disaster preparedness, response, and recovery efforts.

Dexheimer and Oliver will be selecting wines from Amanti Vino and beers from the Brooklyn Brewery to pair with each course. A panel of judges (with the help of audience participation) will decide which is the more successful pairing. I’ll be taking lots of notes.

Seats are still available. For details and ticket information, click here.

Tags: wine